Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed her profound condolences to the families of children who lost their lives in a tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State.
She also wished a swift recovery to those injured and currently receiving treatment.
In a statement released on Thursday, December 19, 2024, the First Lady described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy.
“I extend my condolences to the Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Seyi Makinde, and the people of Oyo State over the tragic stampede that occurred on December 18, 2024, leading to the loss of many young lives,” she said.
The First Lady also offered words of comfort to grieving families. “I sympathise with the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased. My prayers are with those still in the hospital, wishing them total healing and a speedy recovery,” she added.
She urged the affected families to find solace in faith, saying, “May the Lord bring peace to Oyo State, comfort to the grieving families, and hope to everyone affected by this devastating incident.”
The stampede occurred on Wednesday at the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, during a children’s funfair. Reports indicate that chaos erupted as attendees rushed to collect food and gifts, resulting in overcrowding and poor crowd control.
The tragedy claimed multiple lives, primarily children, plunging the community into mourning.
Following the incident, the Oyo State Government has detained the event’s organisers for questioning. Authorities have vowed to hold accountable those responsible for the lapses that contributed to the disaster.
